August 3, 2026 By S. T. ByrdThe U.S. Small Business Administration announced on Aug. 3 the availability of low-interest federal disaster loans for small businesses and private nonprofit organizations in Illinois affected by severe storms and tornadoes that occurred on June 17. The declaration covers Fulton, Henderson, Knox, McDonough, Mercer, and Warren counties in Illinois, making them eligible for Economic Injury Disaster Loans. These loans are available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, and private nonprofit organizations—including faith-based groups—that have experienced financial losses directly related to the disaster. Economic Injury Disaster Loans can be used for working capital needs such as paying fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills that could not be paid due to the disaster. Chris Stallings, Associate Administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at SBA, said: “SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery.